Ben’s Burgers: Burger buffs Brisbane wide will likely attest to the deliciousness that awaits at Ben’s Burgers. Nestled in Winn Lane, this burger outpost has been serving up sumptuous buns, slurpable shakes and stacked fries for several years now – gaining a pretty formidable cult status. With both in and outdoor seating, Ben’s is the perfect spot for a hearty dinner, with vegan options also available. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw away from a bunch of BIGSOUND venues. 

Biang Biang Fresh Noodle: Our chronically online friends will already be across the internet’s burgeoning obsession with hand-pulled noodles but for the unconverted, we’ve fortunately compiled a handy introduction for you. This Brunswick Street eatery has been spearheading the sensation in Brisbane, slinging a mouth-watering menu of noodle dishes. The Chinese eatery is best known for its signature dish: hand-pulled noodles bathed in a delicious broth and topped with the likes of pork mince, potato, eggs, tomato, carrots, shallots and salad. Located just in Brunswick Street Central, Biang Biang Fresh Noodle offers a convenient and casual spot to stop by for a warming bowl and a beer on your way to the gig.

Baja: The modern Mexican restaurant is the chic home to some of Brisbane’s best tacos, tostaditas and tequila. Primely located on Brunswick Street, Baja’s elevated simplicity has been inspired by the sun-soaked region of Baja, Mexico. With a stacked cocktail list and tantalising menu of Mexican fare, dishes are completed with authentic s trimmings like house-made tortillas and mole as well as imported mezcal. Discover share plates, tacos and an array of sensational starters to whet your appetite before a show. If you’re planning on seeing Will Hearn on Tuesday September 3, you can even indulge in Baja’s Taco Tuesday deal. 

Dark Red and Gung Ho! Dumpling Ramen Bar: Hidden in Bakery Lane, Dark Red is an intimate wine bar, pouring a curated selection of wines from around 60 different labels. The rotating by-the-glass selection showcases a range of hand-picked options, with the bar team also shaking up a few flavoursome cocktail concoctions as well. Best of all, Dark Red has teamed up with the neighbouring dumpling house Gung Ho! Dumpling Ramen Bar to let you order dumplings, noodles and snacks straight to your table. Pair your glass of wine with a few piquant plates of Asian delicacies before heading to your concert.

NUG General Store: Fellow Bakery Lane outpost NUG General Store serves up a heavenly menu of handmade pizzas and pastas, as well as a curated drink selection. The Italian-inspired menu changes regularly, with past dishes including fresh truffle and ricotta ravioli, chewy-crust pizzas topped with zucchini flower and bacon as well as homemade desserts like chocolate mousse. The restaurant’s candlelit tables sprawl out into the laneway, making it a cosy spot for sumptuous bite. Be sure to check in on socials to see the menu of the week and secure a booking.

Justin Lane: Burleigh institution Justin Lane launched its first Brisbane location this month – bringing the north a taste of its “be messy” sensibility. Located in the old Alfred & Constance space, Justin Lane has reclaimed the sprawling venue with the addition of a vinyl lounge, rooftop bar and Italian fare. Tuck in on a menu of sourdough-base pizzas, hand-made pastas and antipasti as well as a diverse drinks menu of cocktails, beers and wines. The hospitality hub stays open until 3:00 am on Friday-Sunday, making it a hotspot for a late-night libation.

Looking for more? BIGSOUND has curated a Local Traders Guide to help you find more bars and restaurants to hit up during this year’s festival. Tickets for BIGSOUND are on sale now and can be purchased here.